Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Street, Abu Dhabi) — This mosque (the third largest in the world, and boasting the largest Persian carpet in the world), is arguably one of the most important architectural treasures of contemporary UAE society — and one of the most opulent in the world. It was initiated by the late president of the United Arab Emirates, HH Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, fondly thought of as the father of the UAE
Its design and construction reportedly ‘unites the world’, using artisans and materials from many countries including Italy, Germany, Morocco, India, Turkey, Iran, China, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Greece and of course the United Arab Emirates. More than 3,000 workers and 38 renowned contracting companies took part in the construction of the mosque. Natural materials were chosen for much of its design and construction due to their long-lasting qualities, including Italian marble, stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics. The maximum capacity is approximately 41,000 people. Free admission.